Study Guide

By

Phil Scovell

Each of the four Gospels provide a different view of our Lord. Matthew as (King), Mark as (Servant), Luke as (the Son of Man), and John as (the Son of God). John’s Gospel account, however, is unique in its presentation of Jesus. Even as the first chapter is read, we clearly see Jesus as (God come in the flesh)– “And the Word was made flesh,” [1:14]. The first doctrine John addresses is Jesus as (The Creator God)– “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made.” [1:1-3]. We even discover the true purpose of His coming in the first chapter– “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God,even to them that believe on His name,” [1:12]. Because of this Gospel’s doctrines, Scriptural truths, and spiritual principles, it is truly suggested reading for those newly born again; but it should never be neglected by any Christian for very long.

There are three practical ways of studying John’s Gospel. The first is simply to read it chapter-by-chapter as you would any book. It is mostly chronological and sequential in events; thus easy to follow. It is also easy reading, even in the King James, and almost reads as a novel in modern translations. John was known as “the discipline whom Jesus loved;” and his writing of his Lord demonstrates his love for Him clearly.

The second method of viewing the Gospel is by the miracles performed by our Lord and recorded by John. Only eight are mentioned by John but each reveal an aspect of our Lord’s nature which is comforting to us as His children. The miracles are recorded as follows:

1. The turning of water into wine: [chapter 2].
2. The healing of the nobleman’s son: [chapter 4].
3. The healing of the lame man: [chapter 5].
4. The feeding of the five thousand: [chapter 6].
5. Jesus walking on the water: [chapter 6].
6. The blind man healed: [chapter 9].
7. Lazarus raised from the dead: [chapter 11].
8. The one hundred fifty-three fish: [chapter 21].

These eight miracles were performed by Jesus publicly and not only represent aspects of His eternal nature as God, but can likewise be viewed as various stages of spiritual development in the Christian walk:

1. Conversion: The turning of water into wine. [chapter 2.] (Salvation/regeneration) Being born again.
2. Conflict: Healing of the nobleman’s son. [chapter 4]. (Verification/inspiration.) Immediately following salvation, one will experience conflict and will need to establish trust in the truth of God’s Word by faith as the nobleman did in John 4.
3. Completeness: The lame man of thirty-eight years. [chapter 5]. (restoration, Sanctification, justification) Often the Devil will attempt to paralyze us in our Christian walk by circumstances and situations beyond our control– our Lord always restores us to (walking status).
4. Credibility: Jesus walking on the water. [chapter 6]. (Glorification.) Jesus established His credibility with His disciples as he came walking to them on the water. He often reveals Himself in unusual ways in the Christian life; thus is glorified. Look for HIm!
5. Contentment: Feeding the five thousand. [chapter 6]. (Gratification.) He fills us and we are content.
6. Cleansing: Healing of the blind man. [chapter 9]. (Purification.) I John 1:9 is often experienced in the Christian growth process.
7. Confidence: Lazarus raised from the dead. [chapter 11]. (Tribulation.) It will come but Jesus is the resurrection and the life in all that we face.
8. Commitment: The one hundred fifty-three fish. [chapter 21]. (Dedication.) Nothing is gained in our walk with the Lord without commitment to Him and His Word.

There is yet a third way of reading and studying from the book of John which I recommend; By outline–

I. His Witness/Message. [chapter 1].

II. His Works/Miracles. [chapters 2-11].

III. His Words/Ministry. [chapters 12-18].

IV. His Will/Mysteries. [chapters 19-20].

V. His Wisdom/Meaning. [chapter 21].

• A FINAL NOTE *

There are actually nine miracles in John’s Gospel if you include our Lord’s bodily resurrection recorded in chapter 20. Although His resurrection most certainly was a miracle, it stands alone from the other eight public miracles which reveal His Sonship and Deity.

However you choose to read or study this Gospel, you will no doubt conclude with the confession of John the baptizer– “He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:30].

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